On 20 October 2026, Axalta released its 2026–2027 Global Automotive Color Trends Report. Rather than reporting current sales shares, the study explores design influences likely to shape vehicle colors over the next three to five years. One of its four themes, “Beyond Ordinary,” examines how black, white, gray and silver evolve through refined undertones, effects and finishes.
Why black remains important to coatings
Axalta describes neutral colors as a continuing foundation of automotive design, with differentiation increasingly driven by surface effects and subtle color nuance. Other themes span softer pastel expressions, deeper reds and browns, and colors inspired by technology and nature. This is a forward-looking design forecast—not a ranking of current automotive color sales or a confirmed order book for black pigments.
Implications for pigment formulation
A deep, consistent black finish requires the right pigment, wetting, dispersion and resin compatibility. Special-effect formulations also need careful control of appearance, film performance and production repeatability. No pigment grade should be represented as approved for automotive original-equipment coatings without appropriate qualification.
Gohar Farayand analysis
Gohar Farayand analysis: The continuing role of sophisticated neutrals supports interest in controllable blackness, tint strength and dispersion. A pigment’s value lies in its consistent performance within the complete coating system, not in darkness alone.
Related Gohar Farayand product
Explore Gohar Farayand’s manufactured P-70 black pigment grade. Its suitability for any specific coating system, including automotive applications, must be verified through formulation trials. P-70 black pigment.
Primary sources: Axalta — official report on 2026–2027 color trends.
Editorial date: 4 November 2026